Seven-day anti-polio campaign kicks off across Balochistan amid rising cases

QUETTA: A seven-day anti-polio campaign will commence across Balochistan on Monday, September 9, according to the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) Balochistan. The campaign aims to vaccinate over 2.65 million children against the polio virus, a critical step in combating the recent resurgence of the disease in the province.

EOC Balochistan Coordinator Inam-ul-Haq confirmed that more than 11,000 teams have been mobilised to ensure the vaccination reaches every child. Comprehensive preparations have been made to carry out the campaign efficiently, with the aim of halting the spread of polio in the region.

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In the first eight months of this year, 12 polio cases have been reported from multiple districts, including Quetta, Chaman, Dera Bugti, Qila Abdullah, Jhal Magsi, Zhob, Qila Saifullah, and Kharan. The re-emergence of the virus, after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus, has raised alarms, with environmental samples confirming its presence in various areas across Balochistan.

Health authorities fear that the virus could spread even further if not promptly contained. “Children are at risk, and parents must not endanger their lives by neglecting to vaccinate them,” urged the EOC.

Tragically, three children who contracted polio have already died this year. The EOC stressed that every available resource is being utilised to ensure the complete eradication of the virus.

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The EOC urged that in addition to polio vaccinations, parents should also complete their children’s immunisation courses to protect them against other deadly diseases like measles and pneumonia.

Security will be provided to all polio teams throughout the campaign to ensure the safety of workers and smooth operations.